Sunday Is Coming!

There came the moment when Jesus and His followers travelled to Jerusalem to celebrate Jewish Passover.  Jesus’ arrival is recorded in John 12:12, “News that Jesus was on the way swept through all Jerusalem.  A large crowd took palm branches and went down the road to meet him. ‘Praise God! Blessings on the One who comes in the name of the Lord!  Hail the King of Israel!'”  

That last phrase must have sent shivers of excitement as the disciples neared the city.  They could taste victory!  After all, they believed Jesus had come to overthrow the Roman Government and set up His own Kingdom.  It must have thrilled them beyond description to see how the people welcomed Him, and already called Him, King of Israel!

Imagine, too, the utter despair when Friday came and Jesus hung on a cross of execution to die a criminal’s death.  All hope was gone.  The thrill of a few days earlier smashed to pieces.  He was supposed to be King!  What happened?  It was their own misunderstanding of the purpose of God in sending Jesus.  The Scripture tells us this further down in verse 16, “His disciples didn’t understand at the time that this was a fulfilment of prophesy.”  

Haven’t you and I experienced the greatest of disappointments when we, also, misunderstood the plans of God in our lives?  Have you ever been so certain that what you longed for, hoped for, prayed for, would surely come to pass, only it didn’t?  Like the disciples, you and I can get so caught up in what we believe to be the right way, that if not careful, we can get stuck on Friday, a day when joyful expectations are put to death.

We can easily forget that Sunday is coming.  Sunday brings new light into God’s plans.  Sunday resurrects what is holy and perfect for our lives.  Sunday brings eternal peace, everlasting joy, and hope that will never die.  When the Fridays of our lives bring huge disappointment, let’s remember Isaiah 55:8, “‘My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,’ says the Lord. ‘And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.'” 

Friday may bring a death to your own dreams, but remember, Sunday is coming!